JP2002525443A - Adjustable plating yarn carrier assembly for knitting plating knitting - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: To knit a plating knit, two yarn guides (32, 32) that allow adjustment of the angle between the two yarns (H, S) and the angle of both yarns to the needle (N). An adjustable plating yarn carrier (1) having 34) is provided.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a yarn carrier for a plane knitting machine for knitting a plated knit.

[0002]

[Description of Prior Art]

"Plating" means that two yarns are fed simultaneously to the needles of a knitting machine in such a way that there are a total of two loops, one for each yarn per stitch. The loops are positioned so that one loop is on one side of the stitch and the other loop is on the other side. The yarns can be different colors or have different fiber structures. For example, it is not uncommon to plate so-called "hard" yarns (such as nylon) with elastic or "soft" yarns. A suitable "soft" yarn is an elastic yarn manufactured and sold by EI DuPont de Nemours & Company under the trademark Lycra.

[0003] In knitting, one side has one color or one type of top fiber structure and the other side has another color or another top fiber structure. In a rubber knit where both the face and the backside occur on the same course, both colors or fiber structures will appear on both sides of the knit. The face indicates one color or fiber structure, and the back line indicates the top of the other color or fiber structure.

[0004] The effect of plating is to supply two types of plating yarn to the needle at an angle substantially between 15 ° and 45 ° as measured from the tip of the inner surface of the needle where they meet. Is obtained by securing This angle depends on several factors, including the type of yarn being plated, the knitting texture, the gauge of the knitting machine, the size or shape of the needle hook, and the knitting density. This angle can also potentially ensure that the thread to be plated (usually an elastic thread) is positioned securely in a manner that will not miss the tip of the needle's hook when it is assumed to be caught by the needle. is important. This is particularly important when knitting the first course of sweater knitting. At this time, there is no thread on the needle shank to close the needle latch and thereby catch the elastic thread. The smaller the angle, the more likely the needle will catch the plated yarn.

[0005] One means of achieving this is to slow down the needle down movement (the thread acquisition stage). This can be done by changing the needle guard and the lowering cam by increasing the width of the guard cam.

[0006]

Summary of the Invention

The present invention is directed to a carrier and a knitting machine equipped with such a carrier for feeding a first and a second yarn to a needle at an angle between both yarns.

[0007] The carrier has a first guide member and a second guide member. Each guide member has a distal end through which a yarn distribution passage extends. This passage defines the yarn bending surface on each guide. The yarn emerging from the yarn exit point at the end of each yarn passage is guided towards the needle.

The first guide member and the second guide member can move relative to each other in a first direction so as to adjust the distance between the ends of the passage and thereby adjust the angle between the yarns. . One of the first and second guide members can also move relative to each other in the second direction, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. In one particular example, the first direction is generally parallel to a longitudinal reference axis extending through the carrier, and the second direction is generally transverse to the longitudinal reference axis.

[0009]

[Detailed description]

The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof.

[0010] Like numbers refer to like parts throughout the detailed description below.

FIGS. 1 and 2 are a front view and a side view, respectively, of a yarn carrier generally designated by the numeral 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The yarn carrier 10 is used to guide the yarn to the needle of a plane knitting machine. To better understand the interrelationship and movement of the structure of the carrier 10 and the structure of the parts of the carrier 10 with respect to the knitting machine, the various parts of a typical knitting machine are diagrammatically depicted in the drawings.

A typical plane knitting machine has a plurality of knitting needles N. As seen in FIG. 2, the knitting needles N are typically arranged in front and rear needle arrays, indicated at 14 and 16, respectively. Each knitting needle N of the front needle array 14 can move back and forth individually in the first plane 18, while each needle in the rear needle array 16 can move back and forth in the second plane 20. As a given needle moves back and forth in the plane of interest, the needle catches the plating thread applied to it. The first surface 18 and the second surface 20 intersect,
An intersection line 24 (FIG. 2) extending transversely across the knitting machine is defined.

The front surface 18 and the rear surface 20 define an angle 26 therebetween. It is useful to determine a predetermined reference plane in the machine for definition purposes. The most convenient plane to use as a reference plane is probably plane 28, which is the angle 26 between the needle faces 18, 20.
And further includes a crossing line 24 extending in the transverse direction. The reference plane 28 can be seen as a line in the plane of FIG.

The yarn carrier 10 includes a first yarn guide member 32 and a second guide member 34. Each of the thread guide members 32, 34 is integrally formed with an integral mounting flange portion 32.
F and 34F are provided with generally cup-shaped guide portions 32G and 34G. Each of the flange portions 32F, 34F has a long slot 3 formed for the purpose described.
It has 2S and 34S. The guide portions 32G, 34G of the respective thread guide members 32, 34 are
Ends at tips 32T and 34T, respectively. The distal end of the guide member 34 has a low friction jewel 34J such as sapphire installed thereon. Yarn passage 32Y (FIG. 2)
, 34Y (FIG. 1A) are the leading ends 32T, 34T of the respective thread guide members 32, 34.
Extends through. The surface of each tip 32T, 34T and the corresponding yarn passage 32Y, 3Y
The area of the yarn passages 32, 34 near the intersection with 4Y defines circular or oblong yarn bending surfaces 32D (FIG. 2), 34D (FIG. 1A), respectively. Each yarn bending surface 32D, 34
D bends the yarn passing through the given yarn passages 32Y and 34Y and toward the needle N.

A mounting bracket, generally indicated at 38, supports both the first and second thread guide members 32,34. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the bracket 38 takes the form of an overall L-shaped member, and at one end thereof,
The screw 40 is connected to a crossing mechanism T of a knitting machine having the yarn carrier 10 as a part.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flange portion 34F of the second guide member 34 is directly attached to the second end of the bracket 38, while the first thread guide It should be noted that the member 32 is directly attached to the second guide member 34. Any convenient fitting can be used. For example, guide member 34 can be held to bracket 38 by a large head screw 42 that extends through slot 34S of flange 34F. Screw 42 is the bracket 38
Is screwed into the recess 38R, the lower side of the bolt 42 presses the second guide member 34 against the bracket 38 to frictionally couple the second guide member 34 to the bracket 38.

A similar arrangement can be used to secure the first guide member 32 and the second guide member 34. A screw 46 (FIG. 2) extends through the slot 32S in the flange portion 32F of the first guide member 32 and threadably engages in the recess 34R of the second guide member 34. The lower side of the head of the bolt 46 frictionally couples the first guide member 32 to the second guide member 34.

A first plating yarn, such as a “hard” yarn H, is supplied to the first yarn guide 32 through a ceramic grommet 48. The hard yarn H is indicated by a relatively thick line in the drawing. The grommet 48 is supported by the arm 48A. The arm 48A is pivotally adjustable with respect to the bracket 38 during assembly of the carrier 10. The arm 48A typically remains stationary during use of the carrier 10.
The first thread H is directed by the grommet 48 to an access opening 32A (FIG. 2) located on the rear surface of the first thread guide 32. The yarn H is the guide portion 3 of the yarn guide 32
From 2G, it passes through the passage 32Y in the tip 32T. The thread H bends at a contact point on the bending surface 32D, and the thread H moves away from the first thread guide 32 toward the needle N. As the carrier 10 traverses the knitting machine, the hard yarn H bends at another contact point on the bending surface 32D.

A second plating yarn, such as an elastic or “soft” yarn S, is
2 and is supplied to the second yarn guide 34. The soft yarn S is drawn as a relatively thin line in the drawing. Pulley 52 rides on a jewel bearing (not visible) supported by housing 54. The housing 54 is pivotally mounted by itself to the second guide member 34 by screws 54S. The second yarn S is directed by the pulley 52 toward the guide portion 34G of the yarn guide 34. When the soft yarn S exits from the passage 34Y at the tip of the second yarn guide 34, it hits a contact point on the bending surface 34D of the jewel 34J and is bent toward the needle N. As with the situation in the guide 32, as the carrier 10 moves across the knitting machine, the soft yarn S is pressed against another contact point on the bending surface 34D and bends toward the needle N. The soft yarn S passes from the passage 34Y of the yarn carrier 34 toward the needle N, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,931,023 issued Aug. 3, 1999, assigned to the assignee of the present invention. A low friction jewel 34J is provided to minimize the occasional frictional force.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, each of the threads H, S has a bent surface 32 D exiting from the end of the passage 32 Y, 34 Y at the respective tip 32 T, 34 T of the thread guide 32, 34.
, 34D are shown separated by a distance D from each other. Tip 32T
, 34T, the distance D between the yarn outlets at the ends of the passages 32Y, 34Y can be measured with respect to any desired reference standard. A convenient reference criterion is a reference axis 10A extending longitudinally through the coupled thread guide members 32,34. The term "longitudinal" means that the axis 10A extends generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the knitting machine 10. The longitudinal direction can be considered the general direction in which the yarns H, S pass through the yarn guides 32, 34, or the direction of the carrier 10 as the carrier 10 moves toward and away from the intersection line 24. Preferably, axis 10A is defined to be perpendicular to intersection line 24. The defined axis 10A may, but need not, be within the reference plane 28.

The point at which the thread exits at the end of the passage 32 Y at the tip 32 T of the first thread guide 32 is a first distance E ₁ from the lower edge 38 E of the bracket 38 and a second distance E ₂ from the intersection line 24. It is in. The point at which the thread at the end of the passage 32Y in the tip 34T of the second thread guide 34 comes out is as follows.
Spaced first distance F ₁ by the distance from the edge 38E of the lower bracket 38 and from intersection 24 to the second distance F _2. Advantageously, the distances E ₁ , E ₂ , F ₁ and F ₂ are all measured along the reference axis 10A.

As noted above, for good plating of the hard yarn and the soft yarn, it is necessary that the two plating yarns H and S exhibit a desired angular relationship with each other. Only properly oriented yarns in the space will be properly collected by the knitting needle N and will occupy the desired mutual positions on the needle hooks required for successful plating.
As can be seen in FIG. 1, the threads H, S should define a predetermined angle R with respect to each other. The angle ∠R is typically in the range between 15 ° and 45 °. as a result,
Each of the yarns H and S also defines an angle Δh and an angle Δs. Each angle is a thread H,
S starts from point Q on the inner surface of needle N where it meets needle N and extends parallel to intersection line 24 and is measured from a suitable reference criterion, such as the line indicated by the symbol L.

However, as a practical matter, in the knitting operation, fluctuations can occur due to either the size or shape of the yarn, the texture of the knit, the mechanical gauge, the needle hook or the knitting density. Any of these variations can change the value of the angle ∠R required to make a properly plated knit. The yarn carrier 10 according to the present invention is configured such that the yarn guides 32, 34 can move relative to each other and with respect to other equipment of the carrier. As will be evident, these relative movements cause the carrier 10 to have an angle ∠h, an angle ∠, respectively defined between each of the threads H, S and the line L passing through the point Q of the needle N. ∠s, as well as the ability to selectively adjust the relative angle R defined between the threads.

From the inspection of FIG. 1, it can be observed that the angle ΔR between the threads H, S can be adjusted in various ways. Most directly, the angle ΔR can be changed by adjusting the distance D between the respective tips 32T, 34T of the thread guides 32, 34. Alternatively, if the distance D is kept constant, the angle ΔR can be adjusted by any of the following.

(1) Adjustment of the angle Δh between the hard yarn H and the reference standard L, and / or (2) Adjustment of the angle Δs between the soft yarn S and the reference standard L.

The structure of the carrier 10 of the present invention can accomplish each of these adjustments.

The first guide member 32 and the second guide member 34 can move relative to each other.
To adjust the distance D between the yarn exit points at the ends of the passages 32Y, 34Y in the respective tips 32T, 34T of the yarn guides 32, 34, loosen the screw 46 and remove the first yarn guide member 32. Move in the direction indicated by arrow 58. The direction 58 of the relative movement between the thread guides 32, 34 is generally parallel to the axis 10A. The relative movement of the yarn guides 32, 34 increases or decreases the distance D depending on the direction of the movement. The relative movement between the downward or upward yarn guides 32, 34 (in the direction of arrow 58) increases or decreases the angle ΔR between the yarns H, S (as measured relative to axis 10A), respectively. . It should be noted that the relative movement of the thread guide is illustrated as a linear movement, but is not so limited. As long as there is a distance D between the yarn exit points at the ends of the passages 32Y, 34Y of the tips 32T, 34T and the relative angle ΔR between the yarns H, S increases or decreases, the guides 32, 34 rotate, It can spiral, turn, or move along a desired path.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the guide member 34 includes a bracket 38.
It should be recognized that such correlations are not necessary to change the distance D with respect to. One of the thread guides is not required to move relative to the bracket as long as the thread guides 32, 34 can move relative to each other.
Thus, if desired, the adjustable connection provided by the releasable screw 42 between the guide 34 and the bracket 38 can be omitted, and the guide 34 can be securely fixed to the bracket 38. This fixed connection between these members is shown diagrammatically by connection 59 (FIG. 2).

The ability to move the guide member 34 relative to the bracket 38 facilitates adjusting the angle Δh between the hard thread H and the reference norm (line L). The relative movement of member 34 in the direction of arrow 60 (typically parallel to reference axis 10A) with respect to bracket 38 is:
The yarn exit point at the end of the passage 34Y in the distal end 34T of the guide member 34 and the bracket 38
It acts directly on the adjustment of the distance F ₂ between the distance F _1, and a yarn exit point of the end of the passage 34Y in the tip 34T and intersection line 24 between. Guide 34 and bracket 38
The angle ∠s between the soft yarn S and the line L changes significantly as a result of the relative movement between

It should be noted that the movement of the guide 34 moves the guide 32 since the first guide member 32 is attached to the second guide member 34. Therefore, the angle ∠
The movement of the guide member 34 with respect to the bracket 38 to change the s changes the distance E ₁ (between the yarn exit point at the end of the passageway 32Y in the distal end 32T of the guide member 32 and the bracket 38) and the distance (in the distal end 32T) It has the secondary effect of changing the distance E _{2 (} between the yarn exit point at the end of the passage 32Y and the crossing line 24) and also changing the angle Δh between the hard yarn H and the line L. Since the guide member 32 is movably attached to the member 34,
It is noted that any necessary compensation adjustments may be made by adjusting member 32 with respect to member 34.

It will be readily appreciated that the connection of the members can be reversed. In other words, the first guide member 32 can be one of the guide members movably attached to the bracket, and the second guide member 34 can be fixedly or movably attached to the first member 32. This alternate configuration has the secondary effects of distances F ₁ , F ₂ and angle ∠s
Would facilitate direct adjustment of the distances E ₁ , E ₂ and the angle Δh. FIG.
The -7 embodiment shows such a replaceable configuration in which the first guide member 32 is directly connected to the bracket 38.

In summary, from the above description, the yarn carrier 10 of the present invention, in which the yarn guides 32, 34 are movable with respect to each other and with respect to the bracket 38, provides an angle ∠ between the hard yarn H and the soft yarn S. It is recognized that the adjustment of R and the adjustment of the angle Δh and the angle Δs between the line L passing through the needle N and the hard yarn H and the soft yarn S are possible.

-O-0-o- FIGS. 3 to 7 show a second embodiment of a yarn carrier 10 'according to the invention. FIG.
Corresponding structural members and interrelationships described in connection with and 2 are indicated by the same numbers with ('). As will become apparent, it is believed that the embodiments of the present invention shown in FIGS. 3 through 7 provide a more robust structure than that shown in FIGS. Furthermore, the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 3 to 7 provides another freedom of relative movement between the thread guides 32 ′, 34 ′ which allows a further improvement for adjusting the feed angle of the thread to the knitting needle N. Provide degrees.

In the yarn carrier 10 ′ shown in FIGS. 3-7, the bracket 38 ′ comprises a generally C-shaped clamping member 38 C ′, which has a base 38 B ′, from which a pair of clamping members 38 The arm 38A 'extends. Each clamp arm 3
The ends of 8A 'are bent toward each other to form retaining fingers 38F'. As best seen in FIG. 3, one of the arms 38A 'has an access gap 38G'. The gap 38G 'is a working surface 38W for the purpose described.
'. The base 38B 'of the clamp 38C' is welded (as shown by the stippled area of 37 'in FIG. 5) or otherwise fixed to one end of the generally L-shaped holder 38L'. You. The second end of the holder 38L 'has a long slot 38S'. Bolts 40 'passing through slots 38S' at the second end of holder 38L 'adjustably secure bracket 38' to traversing mechanism T of the knitting machine.

The yarn guide 32 ′ for the hard yarn H is modified from the structure shown in FIGS. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-6, the thread guide 32 'includes a pair of panels 32P' extending upwardly from the elongated flange portion 32F '. The surfaces of panel 32P 'and flange portion 32F' cooperate to define a passageway 32C 'extending axially over a portion of thread guide 32'. The upper edge of one panel 32P 'has an array of spaced teeth 33 for illustrative purposes.

The yarn guide 34 ′ for the soft yarn S is also modified from the structure shown in FIGS. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3 to 6, the thread guide 34 'is slotted and slidably received in a passageway 32C' formed in the thread guide 32 '.
It is a cylindrical member as a whole. As seen in the drawing, the lower end of the thread guide 34 'having the jewel 34J' extends axially ahead of the panel 32P 'of the guide 32'. A side wall 34S 'of the thread guide 34' extends above the edge of the thread guide 32 '. The upper edge of the side wall 34S 'near the teeth 33 of the guide 32' also has an array of spaced teeth 35 provided thereon. The spacing between the teeth 35 of the guide 34 'is greater than the corresponding spacing between the teeth 33 of the guide 32'. This mismatch in tooth spacing causes a discrepancy in the teeth of the two guides for the purposes evident here.

To assemble the carrier 10 ′, the thread guide 32 ′ with the thread guide 34 ′ inserted therein extends slidably through a bracket 38 ′. As can be seen from FIG. 5, a spring 39 is mounted between the holder 38L 'of the bracket 38' and the lower surface of the flange portion 32F 'of the thread guide 32'. The force of the spring 39 acts via the thread guide 32 'to press the upper edge of the side wall 34S' of the thread guide 34 'against the retaining flange 38F' of the clamp arm 38A '. The screw 41 acts to pull the arms 38A 'of the clamps 38C' together, thereby causing the thread guide members 32 ', 34
'Fixed to the relationship described in bracket 38'. The head of the screw 41 is located on the side of the bracket 38 'farthest from the path of the hard thread H.

Each plating yarn is supplied to its yarn guide in a manner generally similar to that described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2. The hard yarn H is supplied to the leading end of the yarn guide 32 'through the grommet 48'. The thread H passes through an access opening 32A 'located on the rear surface of the first thread guide 32' and enters the guide portion of the guide member 32 '(FIG. 4).
). The thread H passes through the passage 32Y 'at the tip 32T' and is bent toward the needle N. The soft yarn S (FIG. 3) is directed onto the pulley 52 'and passes through the central passage of the yarn guide 34' toward the tip 34T '. The soft thread S is a jewel 34 with a tip 34T '
After exiting the passage 34Y in J ', it is bent toward the needle N.

Each angle Δh defined by the hard yarn and the soft yarn with respect to the reference line L
And the angle ∠s, and the angle ∠R defined between the hard yarn H and the soft yarn S are:
It is similar to that described in connection with FIGS.

The angle ∠R is adjusted by changing the distance D between the yarn exit points at the ends of the passages 32Y ', 34Y' of the tips 32T ', 34T' of the yarn guides 32 ', 34', respectively. First, the clamping force applied by the screw 41 is released. Guide 32 ',
34 'is prevented from falling off the bracket 38' by the holding force applied by the bias spring 39. When the clamping force is released, the guide member 32 'can be moved relative to the guide 34' in the direction of arrow 58 'to change the distance D. Again, the direction of movement of the guide 32 'is generally parallel to the axis 10A' of the paired thread guide. Guides 32 'are guides 32' and 34, respectively.
It is moved linearly with respect to the guide 34 'by inserting a leverage tool, such as a flat-blade screwdriver, into the space between the staggered teeth 33, 35 provided on the'. (
The leverage of the tool on the teeth 33 of the guide 32 '(with reference to the teeth 35 of the guide 34') displaces the guide 32 'with respect to the guide 34'. Distance D and angle ΔR
It is within the scope of the present invention to alter the structure of the carrier 10 'to allow movement other than linear movement between the guides 32', 34 'to change the structure.

In order to change the angle Δh and the angle Δs without adjusting the distance D, the guide member 32 ′ can be moved with respect to the bracket 38 ′ in the direction of the arrow 60 ′. When the clamping force is released, the instrument can be inserted into the space between the teeth 33 on the guide 32 'which can be accessed through the gap 38G' in the arm 38A 'of the bracket 38'. The leverage of the instrument on the working surface 38W 'displaces the guide member 34' with respect to the bracket 38 '. It is noted that the leverage of the instrument against the lower edge of the lower arm 38A 'can move the guides 32', 34 'in one direction.
However, the relative movement of the guides 32 ', 34' in the opposite direction is
It would not be possible without the presence of the working surface 38W 'at the upper edge of A'.

As noted above, the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS.
Allow for further adjustments in the supply of yarn to the yarn. Generally, the first and second guide members 3
2 ′, 34 ′ are the yarn exit points at the end of the passage at the end of one yarn guide,
Can move relative to each other in a second direction, indicated by arrows 68A, 68B, to move toward or away from the reference plane. As will be apparent, this action adjusts the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads.

The actuation mechanism that causes this relative movement of the thread guide in the second direction 68A, 68B comprises a thumbscrew 62 having a large head 62H and extending through the lower end of the first guide 32 '. An end 62E of the thumbscrew 62 mates with the rear surface of the flange 34F 'of the first guide 34'. Operation of the head 62H advances the end 62E of the thumbscrew 62 in the direction of arrow 67.

Advancement of thumbscrew 62 exerts a force on the lower end of guide 34 ′, causing it to deflect in the direction of arrow 68 A with respect to guide 32 ′, against the biasing force of spring 39. Direction 68A is generally perpendicular to the plane containing directions 58 ', 60'.
In addition, the other guide 32 ′ is similarly oriented relative to guide 34 ′ in directions 58 ′, 60
'In a reverse direction 68B generally perpendicular to the plane containing the'. When the thumbscrew 62 is retracted, the restoring force created by the spring 39 returns the guides 32 ', 34' to each other in their initial position.

Applying a flexing force to the lower end of the guide 34 ′ moves it with respect to the first guide 32 ′. This displaces the yarn exit point at the end of the passageway 34Y 'within the tip 34T' of the guide 34 'so as to approach or move away from the bisected reference surface 28.
As a result, the relative positions of the threads H and S in the hook of the needle N can be changed.
In the example shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the soft yarn S is replaced from an initial position where the yarns hit or relatively close to each other to a second position where the yarns are relatively far apart from each other.

When the threads S, H are adjusted with respect to each other in the direction 68A, 68B for the movement of the guides 32 ', 34', the position of the threads H, S with respect to the hook of the needle N changes
The adjustment can be made by the movement of the entire carrier 10 'with respect to the traversing mechanism T. Thus, as suggested in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the threads H, S
When the two are positioned as desired by the action of FIG. 2 (FIG. 7C), the screws 40 'can be loosened and the entire carrier 10' can be displaced in the direction 72 on the traversing mechanism T. The rearrangement after this, the position of the relatively positioned yarn,
From the initial position “1” on the hook of the needle N (FIG. 7C), the second point “2” on the hook of the needle N
(FIG. 7D).

This ability to adjust the soft yarn S relative to the hard yarn H within the needle hook is advantageous when rubber knitting is required, for example when knitting wristbands and waistbands of knitted underwear.

In FIGS. 5 and 6, it should be noted that the tip 34T 'of the guide 34' moves along an arc path in the direction of the arrow 68 toward or away from the plane 28 as it moves. is there. However, it is within the scope of the present invention to modify the carrier 10 'so that the tip 34' can move along a straight, curved or circular path. Any convenient mechanism may be used to displace the tip 34T 'of the guide 34' along or along any given path toward or away from the reference surface 28.

The carriers 10, 10 'as described herein can be made from any suitable material having sufficient strength for sustained use in a high speed knitting machine environment. However, the choice of material must also take into account the mass of the carrier.
For the embodiment of FIGS. 3-6, steel is the material of choice.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show portions of a prior art cam plate and a modified cam plate that has been found to be particularly useful for the yarn carrier 10, 10 'of the present invention, respectively. FIG.

The prior art cam plate 80 includes a guard cam 82 having a needle return surface 84. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the two faces 84 are symmetrically disposed about the vertical centerline VCL of the cam 82 to allow reciprocating knitting movement. Needle return surface is end point 8
At 6T, it includes a transition area 86 leading to a knitting cam surface 88. As shown, the slope of the needle return surface 84 changes suddenly at the entry point 86E of the transition area 86.

In operation, assuming that cam plate 80 and thread carrier 10, 10 ′ cross the knitting machine in the direction of arrow 92, the thicker end of the needle rides along the majority of the length of needle return surface 84. Therefore, each needle N retreats in the downward direction 94 in the needle plane. When the needle N encounters the entry point 86E on the cam, the hook of the needle N is positioned slightly above the plating threads H, S. When the needle N reaches the end point 86T of the transition area 86, the plating threads H, S are picked up by the hooks of the needle. Due to the relatively steep slope of the transition area 86, the cam plate travels a relatively short linear distance 95 during the yarn pick-up movement.
The carrier 10, 10 'is at a transverse distance 9 from the needle N when the thread is taken up.
6 intervals. The thread defines a relatively steep entry angle 98 with respect to the needle N at this distance. In some cases, the angle ∠R between the yarns H and S is
Even when properly adjusted by the operation of ', the steep inclination of the approach angle 98 may hinder the picking up of the soft yarn.

FIG. 8B shows a portion of a cam plate 100 which is believed to overcome the problems associated with a steep approach angle and is therefore particularly useful for the carriers 10, 10 'of the present invention. The cam plate 100 has a needle return surface 104 symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertical center line VCL of the cam 100 as in the prior art. The needle return surface has a starting point 104E which is usually on the vertical centerline V. The end of the needle return surface 104 is point 1
It has a transition area 106 extending between 06E and 106T. Cam 10 shown in FIG. 8B
At zero, the transition area 106 of the needle return surface 104 slopes gently toward the knitting cam surface 108. The transition surface 106 can have a gentle linear slope or a gentle arc.

In particular, in the case of the cam plate 100, (the cam 1 between the entry point 106E and the end point 106T)
Linear distance 11 of transition portion 106 (measured in direction of motion 92 of 00)
0 is 15% of the linear distance 112 (measured in the same direction) between the starting point 104E and the point 106T of the needle return surface 104 (at the vertical centerline VCL in FIG. 8B), depending on the gauge of the knitting machine. To 45%. More specifically, the straight distance 110 is in the range of 30% to 45% of the straight distance 112, depending on the gauge of the knitting machine.

In operation, it is again assumed that the cam plate 100 and the yarn carriers 10, 10 ′ cross the knitting machine in the direction of arrow 92. When the needle N encounters the entry point 106E of the cam 100, the eye of the needle N is positioned at a point 114 slightly above the plating threads H, S. When the needle N reaches the end point 106T of the transition area 106, the plating threads H, S have been picked up in the hooks of the needle. However, due to the gentle slope of the transition area 106, the needle pauses its movement at the height of the point 114, so that when picking up the thread, the cam plate 100 is more intense than is possible with prior art cams. It is possible to move by an extremely large linear distance 115. So, when we take up the yarn,
Carriers 10, 10 'are spaced from needle N by a relatively large transverse distance 116. At this distance 116, the threads H, S define a relatively shallow entry angle 118 with respect to the needle N.

From the above, it can be seen that the yarn carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention allows for adjustment of the angle of the yarn as it exits the yarn carrier toward the knitting needle. Thus, the ability of the needle to capture thread is independent of factors such as machine gauge, thread thickness, knitting texture, needle hook size or shape, knitting density, whether the knitting machine is hand-knit or electronic. Is believed to have been strengthened.

Those skilled in the art having the benefit of the technology of the present invention described above can modify this. All such modifications fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[Brief description of the drawings]

1 and 2 are a front view and a side view, respectively, of a yarn carrier for a knitting machine according to a first embodiment of the invention, a part of FIG. 2 being shown in particular in section and FIG. 1A being a view of the carrier of FIG. It is a front sectional view of a part of thread guide.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a yarn carrier for a knitting machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the yarn carrier of FIG. 3;

5 is a side view of the yarn carrier of FIG. 3 taken generally along line 5-5 and partially shown in cross-section.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG.

7A to 7D are stylized diagrams showing the relative positions of hard and soft yarns within the needle hook.

8A and 8B are cam plates of the prior art and cam plates which have been found to be particularly useful for the yarn carrier of the present invention, respectively.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), BR, CN, IL, JP, KR, MX, US (72) Inventor Benin, Joyo Yua, 1911 Newark, Corner Delaware, USA 1250 F-term (reference) 4L054 AA01 AB02 AB03 BA03 FA05 FA06 LA02 NA02 NA05 NA05

Claims (38)

[Claims] 1. A carrier for feeding a first thread and a second thread to a needle with an angle defined between the first and second threads, wherein each guide member has a needle extending from its end. A first guide member and a second guide member having a yarn distribution passage capable of guiding the yarn toward the end, and adjusting the distance between the ends of the passage, thereby adjusting the angle between both yarns. A carrier, wherein the first guide member and the second guide member can move relative to each other in a first direction. 2. The yarn carrier of claim 1, wherein one of the first and second guide members is slidably and removably received within the other guide member. 3. Each of the first guide member and the second guide member supports an array of spaced teeth thereon, the spacing between the teeth for moving one guide member relative to the other. 3. The yarn carrier of claim 2 sized to receive a leverage device. 4. A bracket, further comprising one of first and second guide members fixed to the bracket, and the other of first and second guide members movable in a first direction with respect to the fixed guide member. The yarn carrier of claim 1. 5. A bracket which is movable in a first direction with respect to one of a first and a second guide member movably connected to the bracket and a guide member movably connected to the bracket.
2. The yarn carrier of claim 1 further comprising the other of: a second guide member. 6. A method according to claim 1, wherein one of said first and second guide members is relatively movable with respect to the other in the second direction, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 1 thread carrier. 7. The thread carrier of claim 2, wherein the other thread carrier includes an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, wherein advancement of the actuating screw member moves the movable member in the second direction.
Yarn carrier. 8. One of the first guide member and the second guide member can also move relative to the other in the second direction, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 5. The yarn carrier of claim 4, wherein 9. The thread carrier of claim 8, wherein the other thread carrier includes an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, wherein advancement of the actuating screw member moves the movable member in the second direction. 10. The first guide member and the second guide member can move relative to each other in the second direction with respect to the other, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. A yarn carrier according to claim 5, wherein 11. The thread carrier of claim 1, further comprising an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, wherein advancement of the actuating screw member moves the movable member in the second direction.
Zero thread carrier. 12. The yarn carrier of claim 1, wherein the carrier has a longitudinal reference axis extending therethrough, and the first direction is generally parallel to the longitudinal reference axis. 13. One of the first guide member and the second guide member can also move relative to the other in a second direction generally across the longitudinal reference axis, thereby being occupied by the first and second threads. 13. The carrier assembly of claim 12, wherein the relative position on the needle is adjusted. 14. A carrier for feeding a first thread and a second thread to a needle in a state where an angle is defined between the first thread and the second thread, wherein the bracket and each guide member are moved from an end. A first and a second guide member having a yarn distribution passage capable of guiding the yarn toward the needle, one of the first and the second guide members is movably attached to the bracket, and
The other guide member is mounted on a movably mounted guide member to adjust the distance between the end of the passage of the movable guide member and the bracket, thereby adjusting the angle between the yarns. A carrier wherein the member is movable in a first direction with respect to the bracket. 15. One of the first guide member and the second guide member can also move relative to the other in the second direction, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 15. The carrier assembly of claim 14, wherein 16. The thread carrier of claim 15, wherein the other thread carrier has an actuating screw member associated with the relatively movable member, and advancement of the actuating screw member moves the movable member in the second direction. 17. The yarn carrier according to claim 15, wherein one of the first and second guide members is slidably received within the bracket. 18. One of the first and second guide members supports an array of spaced teeth thereon, and the spacing between the teeth moves the lever to move one guide member relative to the bracket. 18. The yarn carrier of claim 17, sized to accept. 19. An array of first and second needles, each needle of the first array being extendable and retractable in a first plane, and each needle of a second array being a second needle. Wherein the first and second faces intersect to define an intersecting line extending across the knitting machine, the first and second threads intersecting the first and second threads. A carrier assembly for feeding these yarns to each of the needles at an angle therebetween, the carrier providing a yarn distribution passage through which each guide member can guide the yarns from the end toward the needle. A first knitting machine having a first guide member and a second guide member, comprising: adjusting a spacing between ends of the passage as measured in a direction perpendicular to the intersection line;
A knitting machine comprising a first guide member and a second guide member capable of relative movement with each other in a first direction to adjust the angle between the yarns. 20. The knitting machine of claim 19, wherein one of the first and second guide members is slidably and removably received within the other guide member. 21. Each of the first and second guide members supports an array of spaced teeth thereon, and the spacing between the teeth moves the lever to move one guide member relative to the other. 21. The knitting machine of claim 20, sized to accept. 22. A traversing mechanism, a bracket for connecting the yarn carrier to the traversing mechanism, and one of the first and second guide members fixed to the bracket, movably mounted with respect to the fixed guide member. 20. The knitting machine according to claim 19, further comprising the other of the first and second guide members. 23. A traversing mechanism, a bracket for connecting the yarn carrier to the traversing mechanism, one of first and second guide members movably mounted on the bracket, and a guide member movably mounted on the bracket. 20. The knitting machine according to claim 19, further comprising the other of the first and second guide members movable in a first direction. 24. An intersection line wherein the first and second needle surfaces define an angle therebetween, a reference surface extends between the needle surfaces defined on the knitting machine, and the reference surface extends transversely. Wherein the improvement moves the passage of the movable guide member toward or away from the reference surface, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 20. The knitting machine of claim 19, further comprising: one of the first guide member and the second guide member capable of relative movement in the second direction with respect to the other. 25. The knitting machine of claim 24, wherein the other thread carrier has an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, and advancement of the actuating screw moves the movable member in the second direction. 26. A cross line extending between the first and second needle faces defining an angle therebetween, the reference plane extending between the needle faces defined on the knitting machine, and the reference plane extending transversely. Wherein the improvement moves the passage of the movable guide member toward or away from the reference surface, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 23. The knitting machine of claim 22, further comprising: one of the first guide member and the second guide member capable of relative movement with respect to the other in a second direction. 27. The knitting machine of claim 26, wherein the other thread carrier has an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, and advancement of the actuating screw moves the movable member in the second direction. 28. A crossing line wherein the first and second needle faces define an angle therebetween, a reference plane extending between the needle faces defined on the knitting machine, and the reference plane extending transversely. Wherein the improvement moves the passage of the movable guide member toward or away from the reference surface, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 24. The knitting machine of claim 23, further comprising: one of the first guide member and the second guide member being capable of relative movement with respect to the other in a second direction. 29. The knitting machine of claim 28, wherein the other thread carrier has an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, and advancement of the actuating screw moves the movable member in the second direction. 30. The knitting machine of claim 19, wherein the carrier has a longitudinal reference axis extending therethrough, and the first direction is generally parallel to the longitudinal reference axis. 31. A cam plate having a needle return surface with a starting point, wherein the needle return surface includes a transition area extending between the entry point and the end point, and (i) between the entry point and the end point of the transition area. 20. The knitting machine according to claim 19, wherein the ratio of the linear distance between the start point of the needle return surface and the end point of the transition area ranges from 15% to 45%. 32. An intersection line wherein the first and second needle surfaces define an angle therebetween, a reference surface extends between the needle surfaces defined on the knitting machine, and the reference surface extends transversely. Wherein the improvement moves the passage of the movable guide member toward or away from the reference surface, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads. 31. The knitting machine of claim 30, further comprising: one of the first guide member and the second guide member capable of relative movement with respect to the other in a second direction generally transverse to the longitudinal reference axis. 33. An array of first and second needles, each needle of the first array being extendable and retractable in a first plane, and each needle of a second array being a second needle. Wherein the first and second faces intersect to define an intersection line extending across the knitting machine, the knitting machine comprising a bracket, a first thread and a second thread. A carrier assembly for feeding these yarns to each of the needles at an angle between them, the carrier comprising a thread distribution passage through which each guide member can guide the yarns from the end toward the needle. A first guide member and a second guide member, each of which has one of the first and second guide members movably mounted on a bracket, and the other guide member mounted on a movably mounted guide member. Measured in a direction perpendicular to the intersection line That one guide member can move relative to the bracket in the first direction to adjust the distance between the end of the passage of the movable guide member and the bracket when it is moved, thereby adjusting the angle between the threads. Including knitting machines. 34. A first and second needle surface defining an angle therebetween, a reference surface extending between the needle surfaces defined on the knitting machine, and the reference surface defining a transversely extending intersection line. Wherein the improvement moves the path of the movable guide member toward or away from the reference plane, thereby adjusting the relative position on the needle occupied by the first and second threads; 34. The knitting machine of claim 33, further comprising: one of the first guide member and the second guide member capable of relative movement with respect to the other in a second direction. 35. The thread carrier of claim 34, wherein the other thread carrier has an actuating screw associated with the relatively movable member, wherein advancement of the actuating screw moves the movable member in the second direction. 36. The knitting machine of claim 33, wherein one of the first and second guide members is slidably received within the bracket. 37. One of the first and second guide members supports an array of spaced teeth thereon, and the spacing between the teeth moves the lever to move one guide member relative to the bracket. 37. The knitting machine of claim 36, sized to receive. 38. A cam plate having a needle return surface with a starting point, the needle return surface including a transition area extending between the entry point and the end point, (i) between the entry point and the end point of the transition area. 34. The knitting machine according to claim 33, wherein the ratio of the linear distance between the start point of the needle return surface and the end point of the transition area ranges from 15% to 45%.